American Red Cross asking for more blood donations amid shortage

The American red cross reports a drop in blood donations the organization says that donation drops are common for this time of year for the state.

The active flu and winter season are the main culprits.

Flu and cold sufferers are discouraged to donate to prevent a disease from transmitting through the blood.

The winter and snow season often disrupts people from traveling for a donation.

The Red Cross still urges donors to donate if they are free of illness and can safely do so.

“We don’t ever want to have a situation where we don’t have blood to give to a patient in an emergency or a procedure that they do need. If you can’t donate, if you got sick and planned on donating invite a family member or coworker to donate to you,“ said Tiffany Lombardi, Montana Idaho Blood Services District Manager.